PERTH, April 11: Australia’s one-day cricket team returned home Thursday after their victorious tour of South Africa with captain Ricky Ponting already happy in his new role and looking ahead to the World Cup.

Following a 2-1 victory in the Test series, the one-day squad underlined Australia’s dominance by winning five out of seven matches with one game tied.

Ponting told reporters: “I feel very comfortable in the role (as captain), there’s probably still a lot of learning and experience for me to gain over the next 12 months leading into the World Cup.

“But the more cricket I can play and lead the team, the better off we’re going to be.”

Ponting, who took over after previous skipper Steve Waugh was axed in Febrary, added that Australia’s success in South Africa had given his team confidence before return next year for the World Cup.

Australia now have a lengthy break following the cancellation of their tour of Zimbabwe over safety concerns.

Wicket-keeper and opening batsman Adam Gilchrist said: “With all due respect to the situation in Zimbabwe, and Zimbabwean cricket, it is great to be home and I think all the players are looking forward to having a month they didn’t have off before.”

Australia’s next one-day series will be at home to Pakistan for three matches in June.—Reuters